Northern Horde get together for slice of old-time combat

Michele McPherson | Monday, July 26, 2010 11:34

Northern Horde Tauranga members Charlie Tapsell and Robin Mueck engage in combat.

Charlie Tapsell and the other members of the Northern Horde Tauranga may only be a small army of combatants but what they lack in numbers they make up for with plenty of passion and rougish style.

Both qualities were on show at the club's medieval archery and jousting workshop at Memorial Park yesterday as members dressed in period costumes and engaged in combat with swords and other weaponry of the Middle Ages.

Mr Tapsell, 31, is club captain and was a champion combatant at January's International Jousting Tournament in Taupo.

Mr Tapsell, who recalls jousting with wooden sticks as a youngster, said his interest in medieval weaponry was sparked three years ago when he went to an A&P show and saw a display of swords.

He admits becoming a Northern Horde member has turned into "an addictive hobby" - not just for him, but for the other 15 to 20 members who come from all walks of life, including a police officer from Hamilton.

Members also hail from Tauranga, Rotorua, Paeroa and Whangamata.

Mr Tapsell's partner, Carolyn Bermen, said the club's activities were not just centred on archery and jousting but also non-combative things including learning about history, culture, medieval dances and games.

Members are taught how to make their own costumes and armoury or they can buy them from the club, Ms Bermen said.

Mr Tapsell said there were 15 to 20 similar re-enactment clubs throughout New Zealand and clubs competed against each other on occasions, as well as taking part in international tournaments.

Anyone interested in joining the Northern Horde can either visit Memorial Park on a Sunday afternoon, go to www.sportsground.co.nz/northernhorde or phone Charlie on 021 296 0215 or Carolyn on 021 154 4081.